Craving a comforting and wholesome meal? This Mediterranean Orzo Chicken Soup offers a delightful twist on classic Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipes, brimming with fresh flavors. You’ll love this easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor.
- Orzo Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or even broken spaghetti work well.
- Vegetable Broth: Chicken broth is a perfect alternative.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Fresh chopped tomatoes can be used when in season.
- Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be swapped in.
- Lemon: Essential for that bright Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
Spices & Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables until they soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor for your Mediterranean Orzo Chicken Soup.
3. Combine Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the vegetable broth and the undrained can of diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cook the Orzo and Chicken
Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is tender. Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken breast during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
5. Stir in Spinach and Season
Finally, add the fresh spinach to the pot, stirring until it wilts into the soup. Season your Mediterranean Orzo Chicken Soup with salt and black pepper to taste. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens all the flavors.
Variation Ideas
- Add a can of drained cannellini beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Stir in a tablespoon of sun-dried tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of feta cheese just before serving for a salty tang.
- Include chopped bell peppers with the aromatics for more vegetable goodness.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Mediterranean Orzo Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much, as the orzo will absorb liquid over time. Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time. However, the orzo may absorb a lot of liquid, so you might need to add more broth when reheating.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This soup freezes reasonably well, but the orzo’s texture can become a little softer upon thawing. Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep.
How can you make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or a can of chickpeas for protein.
What kind of chicken is best for shredding?
Cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work best for shredding. You can boil, bake, or pan-fry them before adding to the soup.
Can you use whole wheat orzo?
Absolutely, whole wheat orzo is a great option for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. Adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
What if you don’t have fresh spinach?
You can use frozen chopped spinach. Thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the soup.